PF General Conference in Pictures
Romeo Kangombe escapes jail, given two year suspended sentence
Sesheke Central Member of Parliament Romeo Kangombe has been given a two year suspended sentence by the Chinsali Magistrate Court.
Chinsali Resident Magistrate Julius Malata who last week found Mr Kangombe guilty of assaulting two police officers handed out the sentencing this morning and ordered the lawmaker to pay a K10,000.
Magistrate Malata told Kangombe that he risks a stiffer conviction should he commit a similar offence in the next two years.
Officials from the UPND are making efforts to have the K10,000 paid to the Court and have the lawmaker released from Chinsali Correctional facility where he has been held since last week.
Government to broaden social protection programmes – President Lungu
President Edgar Lungu has assured Zambians that his administration will continue implementing and broadening social protection programmes in an effort to improve the welfare of vulnerable people across the country.
President Lungu noted that government will continue to scale up the implementation of programmes such as the social cash transfer, food security park, emergency cash transfer schemes and supporting women livelihoods.
Speaking at the closing of the Patriotic Front (PF) General conference in Lusaka yesterday, President Lungu indicated that government will ensure that the girl child and women are empowered with appropriate skills and empowerment opportunities.
The Head of State noted that he will appoint more women in positions of authority and influence in order to contribute to national development
He added that the implementation of youth empowerment projects will also continue for inclusive governance and development for all.
“As a pro poor party, we shall continue demonstrating our resolve in the fight against poverty and vulnerability among vulnerable people. The Patriotic Government will continue implementing these social protection programmes, and will pay particular attention to broadening coverage and scope of the programme so as to contribute to the wellbeing of all vulnerable Zambians,” President Lungu guaranteed the country.
He added that government will also ensure improved labour conditions for those in the informal sector, among which includes drivers, shop keepers, gardeners and maids.
The President pointed out that PF has demonstrated support towards vulnerable people through various initiatives, saying that the bigger picture is to save the Zambian people who voted the party into power.
President Lungu stated that the party will never depart from its pro-poor values, thus will engage citizens in the affairs of the country in order to find common solutions when faced with challenges.
He was confident that the party will retain power after the general elections in August this year so that government can soldier on with its development agenda to transform the lives of Zambians.
UPND Manifesto is forgery and a product of stolen photos and images from other people’s websites
Government Deputy Chief whip Tutwa Ngulube says it is a shock that the most publicised UPND 2021-2026 MANIFESTO is in fact a forgery and a product of stolen photos and images from other people’s websites.
“We note with dismay that they did not just lift statements word for word but went further to even forget to edit the photo stolen from the Website in Jamaica. A close perusal of the manifesto on page 8 reveals that the banknote pasted in their manifesto is in fact a one thousand Jamaican dollar bill written Bank of Jamaica,” he said.
Hon Ngulube who is newly elected Patriotic Front (PF) Member of the Central Committee said that the shame and embarrassment of stealing ideas could not be hidden when they repeated word for word statements from a South African mining company website and though HH condemned the Zambian Government’s acquisition of 100 percent stake in Mopani Mine through ZCCM-IH after they were offered by Glencore the major shareholders.
Hon Ngulube said that a proper show of ignorance and in the spirit of usual uncoordinated contradictions between HH’s speeches and written documents, the manifesto contradicts his earlier statements when they stated on page 11 of the manifesto that the UPND will put in place a policy and plan to facilitate local ownership and increased participation of Zambian players in the industry.
“This is not what he said about Mopani, “Hon Ngulube said.
Hon Ngulube who is also Kabwe Central Constituency Member of Parliament said that this was a sign of lack of foresight and the failure to come up with their own ideas, adding that it is clear that the UPND lack original and authentic ideas to run their own future government.
Hon Ngulube has since demanded that the UPND within 48 hours withdraw the forged manifesto from circulation or face criminal proceedings for infringement of section 17 of the Copyright and Performance Act.
“We are taken aback to learn also that the UPND is saying they will start respecting court judgments only after they form a government. We note that their president has never respected our courts every time he has lost court cases. In 2016, after his Petition to challenge the presidential election was thrown out, he went on rampage disrespecting the Constitutional Court judges,” he said.
Hon Ngulube said that Mr Hichilema’s disrespectful conduct continued after the Constitutional Court held that President Lungu was eligible to stand in 2021.
He, therefore, demanded that the UPND must apologize to the people of Zambia for presenting a forged document with the hope of forming a government using fake information and stolen images, explanations and ideas.
“They did forge the manifesto and uttered it to the people of Zambia,” he said.
Banyana Coach Advises Shepolopolo
Banyana Banyana South Africa coach Desiree Ellis says Shepolopolo must improve to compete favourably at the delayed Tokyo Olympics in the summer.
Ellis’s Banyana Banyana on Saturday thumped the Zambian women 3-1 in an international friendly played in Johannesburg.
In a post-match interview, Ellis said the Shepolopolo bench should work on the players’ fitness.
“I think our defense won the game first. They made sure Barbra I think had one shot at goal but we nullified Rachael Nachula who was another threat and Grace Chanda as well,” she said.
Eliss added that over reliance on captain and striker Barbra Banda is negatively affecting Zambia’s performance.
“And I think maybe the reliance on Barbra too much, to play other players in I think that will help out the team,” Ellis said.
“I think conditioning is key. We always say if we are in good physical shape because we can play then we can match any team.”
Mucheleka must familiarize himself with the PF Constitution before making any remarks-Sunday Chanda
The ruling Patriotic Front (PF) Media Director Sunday Chanda has advised UPND Spokesperson Patrick Mucheleka to familiarize himself with the PF Constitution before making remarks regarding the just ended PF Party elective Conference.
Mr. Chanda said the PF has noted with much disappointment the attack on the party by the opposition UPND spokesperson in a statement he has issued that is disguised as a congratulatory message.
“His statement disguised as a congratulatory message is loaded with malice which clearly stems from the fact that our colleague from the opposition has not bothered to look at the PF constitution and understand the party’s guiding statutes when it comes to dissolution and putting in place it’s central committee.” Mr Chanda said
He adds that it is public knowledge that the PF has and will always be guided by its constitution.
“The just ended conference was transparent and successful and had both local and foreign participants. The constitution which allows the President to nominate members of the Central Committee was followed. The council carefully reviewed the names and approved.”
To clear the air on the issue of the Central Committee, Mr. Chanda advised Mr. Mucheleka and company would find the following clause helpful and informative.
“ARTICLE 57 of the Constitution of Patriotic Front party Election of Members of Central Committee! Sub-section (3) The PRESIDENT of the party shall submit HIS LIST of CANDIDATES TOGETHER with the names of other CANDIDATES for the office of the members of central committee to the NATIONAL COUNCIL FOR CONSIDERATION and APPROVAL.” the PF Media Director said.
Part II : Who is Who in Zambian 2021 Presidential Elections
By Field Ruwe EdD
GROUP 3: CONVICTS AND FRAUDS
I continue where I left off. I am cognizant of my intense writing and for that reason I may not be everybody’s cup of tea. I am intense because tone deaf politicians have led us in the fool’s paradise in which we can’t see their betrayal, their inhumanity and vanity. Election campaigns have already kicked off with a headwind of lies, bribery, corruption, and deceit—all a staple of Zambian politics. Among the candidates are convicts campaigning behind the artificial walls of the penitentiary in their unseen prison uniform. The politicians featured here have sullied their reputation beyond redemption their supporters must come to their senses and have nothing to do with them.
1. Chishimba Kambwili- National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Leader of the National Democratic Congress Chishimba Kambwili is the most irresponsible political leader who reduces Zambian politics to the level of silliness. His behavior is certainly outrageous by any standard, and particularly for a man who aspires to be president someday. Describing his political style as impetuous, adversarial, petty and ineffective is an understatement. A remarkably narcissistic individual, he shamelessly moves through politics like a child who suffers from poor impulse control.
Since Kambwili came in the limelight, we have watched him evolve from pettiness, ridiculousness to idiocy and absurdity. Inflated with a sense of self-importance, and troubled political relationships, Kambwili is the product of a political life in self-inflicted mayhem; one that often times metastasizes into erratic boundless behavior and unfathomable recklessness.
Often the combustible Kambwili whose gross rhetoric, and slapstick histrionics are his trademark, sticks his dirty foot in his mouth with no understanding of the consequences of his actions. When in trouble, he becomes a master of shenanigans. There are plenty of examples in the media demonstrating Chishimba’s immature tactics. For instance, on October 14, 2020, Kambwili became a convicted criminal and was ordered to serve a year in prison. He faked illness and exhibited his belly as evidence, all the while panting like a baby. The belly did the trick and he was let go.
On March 18, 2021, Kambwili found himself at the feet of Edgar Lungu shamelessly begging for forgiveness and a pardon. His gullible supporters didn’t know what had hit them. Kambwili the craftier of crooks jumped ship, leaving the NDC for the dogs and rejoined PF. Cruelty comes in many forms, but there’s a special sense of dishonor for political leaders like Kambwili who treat their followers like toilet paper. Such dishonest behavior has undercut his effectiveness as a leader of an opposition political party.
It shudders to think Kambwili can be a leader of a party, or worse still become president of Zambia with his illogical thinking and immoral behavior. Most Zambians see a president as the consummate role model. Kambwili models the opposite. I bet you, Kambwili will leave the PF party before August back to NDC or form another. We should all be worried as we watch Kambwili day after day exhibit behavior contrary to that of a serious politician.
2. Fred Mmembe – Leader of the Socialist Party (SP)
How did a capitalist begin to preach socialism, a dangerous and misleading doctrine to the poor? Here is how; with INTERPOL on his heels, Fred Mmembe was thinking fast. Like the Mexican drug lord El Chapo, he climbed the barbed wire and jumped into refuge, his hands blooded, metaphorically put. The most wanted tax-evading bourgeoisie-turned-convict had just outfoxed Zambian justice and landed in the hands of Cuban ambassador Nelson Pages Vilas; to be precise, in the hands of socialism an ideology he once despised.
Back in the pre-democratic era, The Weekly Post, of which Mmembe was front and center, relentlessly urged Zambians to reject Kenneth Kaunda for imposing a costly brand of socialism that enforced periods of starvation due to highly priced mealie-meal. Week after week, Mmembe and his colleagues exposed socialism for the utopian fraud it was, stressing the ideology always transmuted into tyranny and turned strongmen into serial killers. Between the Weekly Post and its demise as The Post, Mmembe who had become a political jailbird embraced Cuban socialism as his gateway to asylum.
In the 2000s, Mmembe whose major concern was the value of property and the preservation of capitalism, put on his toque (the chef hat) and cooked books for breakfast, lunch, and dinner until he became a bourgeoisie. When he heard a knock at the door, he flung himself into the Cuban Embassy. It was behind the embassy walls that Mmembe’s Socialist Party was hatched.
Zambians beware of capitalist Mmembe. He has entered politics to shield himself from criminal liability. This he is doing in collaboration with Cuba, a country which has proved to be the worst form of model which to improve the quality of life. It is the 21st century, yet Cuba, with one of the highest population of doctors and other academics, remains an insular museum—frozen in time—its dilapidated buildings, old cars, and pirate aroma are good only for tourism.
Please bear in mind as you prepare to enter the voting booth in August:; a vote for socialism is a death sentence.
Group 3 to be continued. Who’s next?
Footnote: Matters Arising: Peter Sinkamba—Green Party. I wish to respond to Peter Sinkamba of the Green Party featured in Group 1. I do so because his comment about me is in the public realm. Responding to my take on his party, Sinkamba claims to know me personally, and alludes to my marital status insinuating he has some dirt about me which he chooses not to share with the public. I do not know Peter Sinkamba, nine years my junior, and don’t recall being in his presence. And one thing for sure he’s never been in the presence of my family. He may know my in-laws through the friend he alludes to, that’s about it. Above all, I don’t remember committing a crime of any sort in his presence. This goes to all back-stabbers, don’t dwell into my personal life maliciously under disguise just because you don’t like me. State your real name, tell your story and provide tangible evidence. If you heard it from a second party, a friend, or a fib-peddling relative of mine, or if you are a congenital liar seek help.
Sinkamba further claims that my facts about his party are wrong. Here I quote him: “Also, Field must countercheck facts. In 2016, Civil Society organisations that reviewed all manifestos, under the auspices of Action Aid Zambia, voted the Green Party manifesto as the best in 2016 elections. This information can easily be accessed through Google.” My response to Sinkamba is brief; a great manifesto wins elections and not polls. A Green Party score of 0.12% in the 2016 elections is as good as no manifesto.
Napsa Stars Humbled in Cameroon
Napsa Stars suffered a humbling 5-1 Group B away loss in Cameroon at the hands of Coton Sport to end any ambitions they harboured of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals.
It was also Napsa’s record defeat in their debut continental outing.
Coton went to the break leading 2-0 through a Lambert Arainia 21st minute strike.
Arainia turned provider in the 36th minute for Souaibou Marou to send Coton 2-0 into the break.
He was on hand to set up Sibiri Sanou for goal number three in the 71st minute.
Ferdel Ebanzda and Francis Alemi then struck in the 87 th and 90th minutes respectively to complete a double over Zambian clubs this season after back to back second round wins over Green Eagles.
Meanwhile, 75th minute substitute Doisy Soko ensured Napsa left Garoua with a consolation goal three minutes deep in stoppage time.
Napsa are slumped bottom of Group B with 1 point with two games left.
Coton Sport lead Group B on 9 points from four games, JS Kabylie of Algeria are second on 5 points , one ahead of RSB Berkane from Morocco whom they host in a 21h00 kickoff.
Fit-again Tshimenga Guides Nkana to Victory
Fit-again striker Fred Tshimenga has inspired Nkana to their second straight win in Group D of the 2020/21 CAF Confederation Cup.
Tshimenga on Sunday afternoon came off the bench to score the goal that propelled Nkana to a 1-0 win over Tanzania’s Namungo FC at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
The Congolese forward scored in the 77th minute after replacing Ackim Mumba earlier on 54 minutes.
The assist came from forward Harrison Chisala, who had replaced Diamond Chikwekwe, at the same time Tshimenga was introduced.
Namungo managed to hold off misfring Nkana in the first half as the two teams went to the break with a goalless stalemate.
Mumba directed his 24th minute free kick at the keeper with Obed Masumbuko sending his long range strike wide ten minutes later.
Meanwhile, Nkana have completed a double over Namungo whom they stunned 1-0 away in Da-es-Salaam last Sunday.
Nkana stay third in Group D despite increasing their tally to six points as Namungo remains bottom with no points after playing four matches each.
Group D leaders Raja Casablanca visits second placed Pyramids away in Cairo later on Sunday.
Raja sits on nine points and Egyptian side Pyramids are three points behind the Moroccans.
President Lungu’s Full Speech at the Closing of the PF Convention
Good morning.
I extend warm greetings to you all. Greetings to our international friends who have been with us through out the conference. We are humbled by your presence and support. Yesterday, we held leadership elections and upheld our commitment to intra-party democracy and rule of law.
This is a living commitment we set for ourselves 20 years ago, when the Patriotic Front was founded.
As a party, we have remained true to our commitment of ensuring that members at all levels of the party structures are free to participate in this very important process. This is what democracy entails and we are resolved to abide by its doctrine in order to enhence good goverance in the party and the republic.
Once again, let me wholeheartedly accept the unwavering trust and confidence members of the national council as well as general conference demonstrated yesterday by uninamously electing and approving me as party president as well as the PF presidential candidate for the general and presidential elections to be held on 12th August, 2021. I am thankful to you all for the support, I will not let you down as your party leader. Come August, 2021, the PF boat will politically float and sail through to the promised land. Trust me, I will be here with you in victory and triumph.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
Let me specifically address our good and dedicated members of the party who applied and did not make it on the final list of the 54 members of the Central Committee yesterday. In the PF, we must all know that there are no winners or losers when it comes to party leadership appointments and elections. It is important for everyone in the party to accept and defend the results for yesterday in the name of tue party democracy, patrioticism and loyalty.
Following our general conference, we must now demonstrate our true patriotism and commitment for what we stand for and believe in the Patriotic Front. With or without a position in the party, we must all prove our allegiance and loyalty to the party by demonstarting our pride, love, devotion, and sense of attachment to the Patriotic Front. As long as you seek belonging to and working diligently for the party, recognition and promotion awaits you at the opportune time.
The bible in proverbs 3:34, says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble”. In the next five (5) years, I personally pray to lead a party with members who are humble, loyal, united, respectful and dedicated to loving and defending Zambia. By now, must be aware that, in the PF, we are all equal members of the party-men or women, young or old, founder members or new comers and christian or muslims. We are one noble political family. Therefore, I want to appeal to all well-meaning members of our party to promote and defend party unity and oneness going forward.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
Let me commend the former secretary general of our party, Hon. Davies Mwila and his hard-working team for successfully organizing all the 10 provincial elective conferences for the party. I further applaud our former secretary general and his able team for efficiently organizing this conference under “the new normal”.
It is indeed gratifying that we, as the ruling party were able to hold our general conference virtually in line with COVID-19 regulations, certifications and guidelines as set by the ministry of health. Through the manner we held our national council and general conference yesterday, we have proven that COVID-19 has drastically changed human conduct and political socialiation.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
I also acknowledge and pay glowing tribute to both the first generation and current members of our great party for their role in mobilising, organising and growing the party at all levels. It is for this reason that our party is growing in popularity by the day. Going into August elections, let us all double our efforts in mobilizing for voters countrywide.
Each day, we continue to witness new members joining us across all regions of the country, including in the so-called opposition strongholds. More and more Zambian people are believing in us, what we stand for and what we mean for our citizens. This is very encouraging.
As president of the Patriotic Front, I wish to thank and congratulate the leadership and the entire membership of the mobilization committee and secretariate for working tirelessly to grow our party. The results of your efforts are unparalleled and are there for all of us to see. Continue with your good work. A warm welcome to all those that have made the wise decision to join our party so far. You have made the right choice. You mean a lot to us and the people of Zambia. We look forward to working with you on our sure path to victory this year.
I urge all those who are yet to join us to do so now without further hesitation. It will be the greatest decision you will have made. A decision you will cherish for the rest of your lives. A decision which will put you on the right path to contribute, in concrete terms, towards the development of your country, our country. Do not be a bystander or an armchair critic forever. There is enough room for you in all structures and levels of our party in every part and region of our great country. Join the moving and growing vehicle, join the Patriotic Front.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
As a pro-poor party, we shall continue to demonstrate our resolve in the fight against poverty and vulnerability among the marginalised sections of our society. We shall continue to scale up the implementation of the social cash transfer, the food security pack, the emergency cash transfer scheme and supporting women’s livelihoods.
Today, we can boast of approximately 4.2 million poor and vulnerable people, across the country, benefiting from these social protection programmes. This is a clear indication that your Patriotic Front government is living up to its commitment of not leaving anyone behind.
The Patriotic Front administration will continue implementing these social protection programmes. We will pay particular attention to broadening coverage and scope of the programmes so as to contribute to the well-being of all vulnerable Zambians in need of welfare and livelihood support.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
We shall ensure domestic workers, drivers, shop-keepers and general workers enjoy improved salaries and conditions of service following the amendment of the minimum wages and conditions of employment act.
Distinguished guest, delegates and members,
The Patriotic Front government is a strong believer in gender equality. We shall ensure that women equally contribute to our success story, by being round the table of key decision-making processes. For this reason, I will continue to appoint women in positions of authority and influence.
We shall conversely continue to empower the girl-child and women with appropriate skills-training, equipment and empowerment opportunities across the country.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
Over the years, the Patriotic Front government has implemented various youth empowerment programmes and projects. I assure the young entrepreneurs in this country of continued support as my government has demonstrated that we believe in inclusive governance and empowerment.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
Don’t forget that the bigger picture is to serve our people – the Zambian people. The Zambian people are still in love with us and we love them back. We have come a long way together and we must not depart from our values, what we are. We are a pro-poor party.
On Thursday, 12th August, 2021 the Zambian people will have a choice to make. To choose between a party that is truly theirs to lead them, or, choose a section of people that represents interests of their sponsors and a sectarian movement.
For a long time, we have seen this during elections that certain foreign interests gather around, root for, and finance our friends to win elections. They have never won because Zambians are wiser and cannot be cheated or fooled.
Contrast this with the support of our own people, rooted in the belief that we cannot let them down. They support us, and vote for us and we have been winning elections. This is why I make this promise to the Zambian people, that come election day, go out in numbers to vote for us so that we continue working to improve your welfare. You are the reason I spend sleepless nights for so that we, together, find common solutions to our problems.
And remember, I am saying, together we find solutions to our problems. Our opponent, do not believe in that principle. They believe they have all solutions to your problems. Contrast with our party, the Patriotic Front, we don’t believe that we are the most knowledgeable Zambians. Our biggest weapon are the people of Zambia who we humbly serve, and they give us loyalty and support. In fact, the only ubiquitous being we know of in the party is the almighty God.
On Thursday, 12th August, 2021, the Zambian people will have to choose between tested leadership and very untested leadership. And by tested leadership I mean, a man who has served in both private and government sectors at the highest level. I have served in conglomerates such as ZCCM where leadership was integrated to all the echelons of the corporation;
I have worked in Barclays Bank where management and corporate governance is of the highest standard; and I have worked in government, where proceedure is unshakable.
And in government, I served as Member of Parliament for Chawama constituency; then Deputy Minister in the office of the Vice President; the Minister of Home Affairs; then Minister of Justice; then Minister of Defence, and then President.
Ladies and gentlemen, members of the Patriotic Front,
That is a hell lot of experience!
But you know what? Where I come from, we are taught never to boast. So we don’t talk too much. But you will hear them come to you and tell you they are economists, lawyers, doctors or they are businessmen, what can you tell them? They know it all. They tell us, they are rich, and the rest who work hard to succeed, they brand them thieves.
They brand us tribalists when we appoint names they don’t identify with or don’t like. It reminds me of my growing up on the Copperbelt, where we didn’t know tribe. Where we lived in real communities and learnt to share if you have. These are values you can never do away with regardless of your status in life. These are values I want embraced in our communities. These are values I will live with for the rest of my life.
Yesterday, our general conference successfully approved my “One Zambia, One Nation” list of members of the party central committee. From the list, everyone is a witness that all our provinces, regions, ethnicity and gender were carefully selected and well balanced without leaving anyone behind. In PF, there are no big or small regions or tribes; we are one political family under “One Zambia, One Nation”. In the Patriotic Front, we don’t just talk against tribalism like others, we act against it with all our mighty, soul and deeds.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
With the experience we have gained in delivering a better life to Zambians, it is only right that we continue to lead this nation to sustained prosperity. As a party in government, we have demonstrated unwavering commitment to our vision of building a prosperous, united, democratic and inclusive Zambia for all.
We have demonstrated, over the last ten years, that we are equal to the task of national development as well as national building.
Our experience has equipped us with skills and wisdom to take this country to greater heights. We will build on the momentum that we have achieved so far. This is not the time to experiment with leadership. I call upon all those whose interest is to serve the people of Zambia to come and join us.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
The Patriotic Front remains an all–inclusive party, without any due regard to one’s tribe, creed or colour. While our membership is diverse, we have remained united, even when there have been attempts to divide us. We will surely remain unified as ours is a song of unity, as exemplified by the One Zambia, One Nation motto.
We are open to old and new members. We are always ready to unconditionally welcome back those that may have strayed. We, in the Patriotic Front, have also embraced new members from other political parties who believe in our principles and values. In PF, all and everyone is welcome.
I am confident that our party will remain in power after the August, 2021 elections. The people of Zambia have faith in our party. Equally, the traditional leadership, the church and civil society have shown willingness to continue working with us in an effort to develop this country. We will continue to listen to their wisdom and counsel as well as the people’s concerns to better deliver on our fresh mandate.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
Let us celebrate our party and its achievements. Let us not get discouraged but rather be motivated by our critics. Let us soldier on in our development agenda. Together, we will surely transform the lives of our people. So far, so good. We are determined to do even better.
The new leadership from this conference will have the noble task of uniting and mobilising the party towards the August 2021 elections. There is no time to waste. We expect to work with all members of the party. The credibility of yesterday’s election will be marked by how we conduct ourselves after this conference. Let us emerge stronger than ever before as a united family, the Patriotic Front.
Distinguished guests, delegates and members,
We must all go flat out and mobilise more members and voters as there are no winners or losers in PF. Let us aim and work harder for a landslide victory for ourselves as a party. We have the support of the Zambian people. Let us, with warm hearts, welcome back old members that left the party for various reasons. Let us embrace those joining us from other political parties. The future of the Patriotic Front party is in our hands; and the future of the Patriotic Front is politically brighter.
I now declare the Patriotic Front elective general conference officially closed and wish all those travelling, journey mercies and grace from above.
I thank you all and God bless you.
UPND says PF held a selective National Convention
The opposition UPND has congratulated the ruling PF for holding what it says was a selection national Convention.
UPND Deputy National Secretary Patrick Mucheleka said the PF was selective.
“We would like to ‘congratulate’ our colleagues in the PF for successfully holding their virtual convention in peaceful atmosphere. We take note of public outcry that the PF convention ushered in their Central Committee without casting a single vote,” Mr Mucheleka said.
“We also note that the youths and women were largely left out of the newly appointed PF leadership and there is no regional balancing, something very worrying especially that they are a ruling party,” he said.
“But we recognise that just like our party, the PF is a mere club with its own rules and aspirations and they can decide to do what they want in accordance with their desires. It is up to the Zambian people to choose a political party that is truly uniting and offers the best policies.”
He added, “With majority of the political parties now having held their conventions, we look forward to having a peaceful campaign period devoid of hate language and violence.We should offer the Zambian people positive messages of what we intend to do in alleviating poverty and hunger ravaging the country.”
“We have released our vision for the country through our manifesto which we launched on Friday. We now look forward to the PF and all other political parties to release and debate their manifestos instead of character assassinations.”
President Lungu warns against tribalism as Mwila is reappointed PF SG
President Edgar Lungu has reappointed Davies Mwila as Secretary General of the PF and cautioned the party against embracing tribalism and regionalism.
President Lungu said he was displeased that the PF Eastern Province was exhibiting traits of tribalism and regionalism after complaining that the region had just three people elected as Members of the Central Committee at the just-ended party convention.
“ Let’s not be regional and tribal . I didn’t expect Easter Province to start being tribal… You have the President, the big one, as a Member of the Central Committee,… ” said President Lungu.
President Lungu said the recently endorsed list of members of the PF’s Central Committee was done taking into account regional balancing and proportionate representation in line with the country’s inclusive policy and One Zambia One Nation motto.
The Head of State said all PF members have a democratic right to participate in the affairs of the party but the interests of the party supersedes individual aspirations.
He said the party constitution allows him to ensure that unity is enhanced through inclusive leadership and governance.
President Lungu has since called for unity, and loyalty from the PF membership stressing that he wants to lead a party that has loyal, humble and respectful members.
The President urged party members to double their efforts and mobilize the party across the country
Officially closing the PF Convention, President Lungu appealed to the PF membership to work with the new Central Committee to achieve the party’s goals and vision of winning the August 12, 2021 general elections in order to continue working on Zambia’s socio-economic transformation and improve the lives and welfare of Zambians.
President Lungu has since re-appointed Davies Mwila as PF Secretary General and tasked him to continue building on the successes of the party’s convention and ensure that the party structures are mobilized and organized to sell the party to Zambians ahead of the August 12 polls.
He directed Mr Mwila to ensure that the PF’s inaugural Central Committee meeting be held by April 17, 2021 in order to look at pressing party matters among them the party’s manifesto and adoptions.
The Head of State assured women that the Party will strive to ensure that more women are adopted as candidates in the August 12 general elections.
He said he will continue appointing more women to positions of authority and influence in order to give women more opportunities to participate in the development process of the country.
President Lungu warned Zambians to desist from experimenting with leadership that has not been tested which can plunge the country into troubled waters.
The President said he has an impeccable track record of private and public sector service which cannot be compared to other political aspirants wishing to get to State House.
President Lungu stressed that Zambia, just like the PF is not for sale to the highest bidder and warned politicians with a habit of seeking foreign financing and sponsorship to win elections to desist from such as Zambians will never let their country be sold for a penny.
He said Zambia will continue to look for solutions to problems that affect the country as opposed to selling the country to foreign interests as other political parties are bent on doing.
The President appealed to PF founding members who strayed away to come back to the fold and be part of the legacy of late President Michael Sata of developing Zambia into a modern state for the benefit of all Zambians.
President Lungu said much as he would love to go and seek PF members that left the party , like the biblical shepherd that leaves his 99 sheep for the one that is lost, he was wary that as a mortal , his many members could be devoured if he opted to go and bring back PF prodigal sons and daughters.
He said the PF will always remain open to anyone wanting to return or join it and serve Zambians.
President Lungu stated that he was confident that the PF will retain power in the August 12 general elections because it has met the expectations and aspirations of Zambians.
The President said the PF will continue to work with the traditional leadership, the Church and Civil society in order to govern the country well and improve the lives and welfare of Zambians.
During its elective convention held from 10 to 11 April 2021, the PF unanimously adopted and endorsed President Edgar Lungu as its President and sole Presidential candidate for the August 12, 2021 general elections.
The PF Conference also elected 54 members unopposed as members of the central committee with 18 being women.
Below is the details released by PF for the composition of the new Central Committee
SUMMARY FACTS ABOUT THE NEWLY ELECTED PF MCCs LIST
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President Lungu received 170 valid applications for the position of member of central committee (MCC).
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In line with Party Constitution, President Lungu also presented his list of 54 MCCs he called a “One Zambia, One Nation” list as he balanced all the regions, provinces and ethnicity in the supreme organ of the party.
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His “One Zambia, One Nation” list of 54 MCCs is what was openly debated widely seconded and unanimously approved by the 1,100 delegates in all the 10 provinces sitting as National Council and General Conference respectively.
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out of the 54 “One Zambia, One Nation” MCCs approved by both the national council and general conference, 20 are women (37%) visas 34 men (63%); and 15 are youth leaders-(28%).
|
No. |
FULL NAMES |
|
1 |
Hon. Dora Siliya |
|
2 |
Hon. Vincent Mwale |
|
3 |
Hon. Charles Zulu |
|
4 |
Hon. Stephen Kampyongo |
|
5 |
Hon. Mumbi Phiri |
|
6 |
Hon. Mwimba Malama |
|
7 |
Hon. Silvia Chalikosa |
|
8 |
Hon. Alexander.B. Chikwanda |
|
9 |
Hon. Ng’onga Mukupa |
|
10 |
Hon. Brian Mundubile |
|
11 |
Hon. Godfery Bwalya Mwamba |
|
12 |
Hon. Chomba Sikazwe |
|
13 |
Hon. Davies Chama |
|
14 |
Mr. Musonda Mpankata |
|
15 |
Hon. Godfridah Sumaili |
|
16 |
Hon. Davies Mwila |
|
17 |
Hon. Renald Chitotela |
|
18 |
Dr. Chilufya Chitalu |
|
19 |
Hon. Antony Kasandwe |
|
20 |
Hon. Emerine Kabanshi |
|
21 |
Hon. Nickson Chilangwa |
|
22 |
Hon. Tutwa Ngulube |
|
23 |
MCC. Philip Kosama |
|
24 |
Dr. Jestone Mulando |
|
25 |
Mrs. Monica Mwansa Mwale |
|
26 |
Mrs. Annie Tischer |
|
27 |
Prof. Nkando Luo |
|
28 |
Hon. Jean Kapita |
|
29 |
Hon. Elizabeth Phiri, MP |
|
30 |
Hon. Bwalya Ngandu |
|
31 |
Mr. Paul Moonga |
|
32 |
Hon. Richard Musukwa |
|
33 |
Hon. Jonas Chanda |
|
34 |
Hon. Micheal Katambo |
|
35 |
Hon. Kampamba Mulenga |
|
36 |
Hon. Frank Ng’ambi |
|
37 |
Hon. Joe Malanji |
|
38 |
Mr. Charles Kakoma |
|
39 |
Hon. Kabinga Mpande |
|
40 |
Mrs. Maureen Kalema |
|
41 |
Ms. Kutemba Konga |
|
42 |
Her Honour Mrs Inonge Winna |
|
43 |
Captain Lyambela Lyambela |
|
44 |
General Peter Kazhila |
|
45 |
Mr. Glenn Chingumbe Kalimbwe |
|
46 |
Ms. Mundia Mulute Mundale |
|
47 |
Ms. Kavumbu Hakachamba |
|
48 |
Hon. Syacheye Mandyakhukhu |
|
49 |
Hon. Given Lubinda |
|
50 |
Mr. Kebby Mbewe |
|
51 |
Dr. Edify Hamukale |
|
52 |
Ms Annie Kayula |
|
53 |
Ms. Catherine Chama Chileshe |
|
54 |
Ms. Majorie Nakaponda |
Educational and Cultural problems cannot be isolated from our overall socio-economic situation
By Fred M’membe President of the Socialist Party
Underdevelopment is, among other things, lack of learning and lack of the possibility to learn. It is not only how many cannot read and write. It is also how many cannot read or write, or pass on to higher levels of education, due to the lack of teachers, schools and the minimum conditions beyond those most elementary for subsistence. That is why our dramatic educational and cultural problems cannot be isolated from our overall socio-economic situation.
A characteristic of illiteracy is that it is greater in our rural than in urban areas, and among women than among men.
It is not by chance, however, that the geographic and social distribution of illiteracy is almost the same as that of poverty. Illiterates are, as a rule, also the poorest, the most poorly fed, the least healthy, the most disadvantaged and exploited. The illiteracy figures reveal the frustrated development of human capacities and potential; the limitations on the individual as a human being and as part of a community; exploitation and ignorance as to a better future; the dramatic social effects of underdevelopment; loss of national identity; social and economic backwardness.
Many of our children today lack schools or the means and possibilities to attend school.
The rational behind this reality and its cause is the situation of poverty that forces them to drop out of school, the distances that have to be covered to get to school and the deplorable material conditions of many of the schools.
Another factor to be borne in mind is the insufficient training of teaching staff and the lack of ways and means to remedy this insufficiency, which has its effect on the limited and poor quality teaching provided. To add to an already gloomy situation, there is the number of university graduates that are lost every year due to the brain drain of the major capitalist powers.
It is imperative to stress another aspect that hampers our efforts in the pursuit of education and cultural development. Imperialist mass media are continuously, sometimes subtly and sometimes openly, carrying out a process of ideological and cultural penetration aimed at eroding our cultural identities, creating habits and patterns of conduct foreign to the needs of our people, belittling and deforming our people’s cultures in their own eyes.
This, of course, has no bearing on the flow of ideas or on the legitimate exchange of the products of their cultures among peoples. These very mass media are working to create a consumerist image devoid of all rationality and are trying to impose mesmerising illusions on our people as absolute truths. An enormous percentage of the television programmes broadcast today in our country come from developed capitalist countries.
Kambwili says he will soon spill the beans on certain politicians
Former Roan Member of Parliament, Chishimba Kambwili has disclosed that he will soon spill the beans on certain politicians whom he described as selfish.
Addressing journalists in Lusaka at the Patriotic Front (PF) national convention, Dr Kambwili who is attending the function as a delegate said he will address the nation at an appropriate time why be withdrew from the United Party for National Development alliance.
Dr Kambwili who was accompanied by his newly appointed Vice President Saboi Imboela said after speaking out on certain politicians, they will not rise politically.
“There will be time when I will speak and when I speak they will not rise politically because I know who they are,” Dr Kambwili warned.
He also wondered why many political parties have withdrawn from the alliance leaving only one party leaders.
“If you you had 14 friends and they all run away from you only remains with nashala neka parties,” he said.
Dr Kambwili has also called for unity among politicians adding that politics of name calling , hatred or violence are a stone age.
The PF has today commenced its national elective general conference which will be held virtually till April 10, to elect leaders who will spearhead the party during and after the August 12, general elections.
Other opposition leaders witnessing the PF convention include, FDD leader Edith Nawakwi among others.
Wynter Kabimba urges President Lungu not to listen to the prophets of doom
Rainbow Party Secretary General Wynter Kabimba has urged President Edgar Lungu not to listen to the prophets of doom propagating that there will be violence during this years’ general election.
Mr Kabimba said there is need for leaders to instead join hands and ensure that peace prevails during the elections.
He has however commended President Edgar Lungu for having a big heart and accommodating criticism from other political parties.
Speaking at the Patriotic Front general conference held virtually, Mr Kabimba said his Party will continue to work with the PF in improving the livelihood of the Zambian people.
He thanked the Patriotic Front party for inviting him to the general conference stating that the invitation is a recognition of how the two political parties have co-existed.
Mr Kabimba said this is also a demonstration that it is possible for political parties to live together and respect each other.
He has also appealed to Zambians to play a role in ensuring that peace is maintained.
Mr Kabimba said it is the duty of every Zambian to maintain peace and unity in the country.
Meanwhile, Mr Kabimba has urged President Lungu to forget about other opposition political parties as the race will be between the PF and two opposition political parties, namely UNIP and the Rainbow party.
“ I hope you realise you will have two opponents, these are your former classmates, UNIP’s Bishop Trevor Mwamba and myself. Forget about the rest and concentrate on us. My prayer is that the President of this country must remain in our class, we must guard this presidency jealously, it must remain in our class in 2021, 2026, and beyond,” he said.